“He is wanted by several different sides, Italian and overseas, but we are still at the beginning of the process. In any case, Italian offers have the priority.”

This is a blow to Arsenal, but in Serie A there is interest from Roma, Fiorentina, Napoli and Milan.

“I have not been contacted directly by Milan, but that doesn’t mean the two clubs haven’t been in talks. I think it is only normal that Milan would want someone like Ilicic. The Rossoneri would certainly be the top destination.”